Picturesque scenery and the locals’ laid-back lifestyle are certainly what Pai prides itself in, but these are not all you can enjoy when visiting this peaceful valley. Pampering yourself with rejuvenating spa treatments is also a possibility.
Within the valley of Pai, there are a number of natural hot mineral springs but the most easily accessible one for tourists is Tha Pai hot spring within the Huai Nam Dang National Park. There are four main hot spring ponds in the area, which are set amid dense forest. The average temperature in these ponds is 80 degrees Celsius. The mineral water from these resources snakes down the slope of the mountain, transforming the whole site into an attractive hot mineral spring stream. The hot stream of mineral water then meets with cold streams from other sources, making the temperature perfect for bathing. These are the spots where visitors can have a picnic by the side of the waterfall, either before or after a healthy bath. Besides bathing, mineral shower boxes, a camping area and restaurants are available within the same compound too in case anyone fancies lingering longer by the warm stream. To enjoy this mineral spa, Thai nationals are required to pay 40 Baht entrance fee.
Those expecting private bathing facilities for a large group are advised to try the ‘spa pool’ at Tha Pai Spa Resort. The pool shares the same mineral resources as that of the original natural hot spring bathing area in the national park. The Quarter also offers splendid spa packages although a natural mineral spring spa is not available there. However both places welcome walk-in clients and you are not obliged to stay at any of these places in order to make use of the services offered. So, you can pick a place that best suits your budget, be it a small, cozy, hip or boutique. Just bear in mind that here is a 50 Baht fee for the use of Tha Pai Spa Resort’s ‘spa pool’. For The Quarter’s the luxurious spa courses the price varies.
